Hazard Classes
What does a Class 3 placard indicate?
Flammable liquids
What resource should you use to identify a dangerous good using its UN number?
The Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
What is the first step for a paramedic arriving at a potential HazMat scene?
Scene safety and hazard assessment from a distance
What level of PPE does BCEHS typically operate under at hazmat awareness level?
Level D (standard PPE — gloves, boots, uniform, eye protection)
You smell a strong chemical odor near an overturned tanker. What should you do first?
Withdraw, position uphill/upwind, isolate the area, notify dispatch
What color placard represents explosives
Orange
What three pieces of information are essential when reading a placard?
UN number, symbol, and hazard class
What command should be initiated early in a hazardous materials incident?
Unified command / request HazMat team through Dispatch
What’s the purpose of gross decontamination?
To remove the majority of contamination before more detailed decon
A package is leaking a white powder. What’s your action?
Do not handle it; isolate, deny entry, request HazMat.
What does the skull and crossbones symbolize on a placard?
Toxic substances (Class 6.1)
Where is the shipping document typically found on a transport vehicle?
In the cab, near the driver’s seat, or in a holder on the driver’s door
What is the awareness-level paramedic's role at a HazMat event?
Recognize, isolate, deny entry, and notify
What PPE level includes splash protection?
Level C
You have a patient exposed to an unknown chemical powder. What’s your PPE and approach?
Use Level D, stay in cold zone, instruct for self-decon if able, await HazMat.
What class does “Radioactive Material” fall under?
Class 7
You see a truck marked “UN1203.” What substance might it contain?
Gasoline (flammable liquid)
What documentation or resource provides BCEHS guidance on HazMat incidents?
BCEHS Clinical Practice Guidelines / BCEHS Dangerous Goods Awareness documents
Who is responsible for determining PPE levels on a HazMat scene?
HazMat group / Incident Commander based on hazard assessment
After decontamination, you suspect respiratory distress from chlorine gas. What is your treatment priority?
Administer high-flow O₂, monitor airway, and transport once safe.
Name two examples of compressed gases found in healthcare or transportation settings.
Oxygen, propane, acetylene, CO₂, nitrogen
What’s the first action after identifying a possible dangerous good?
Establish a safe perimeter and gather information from a distance — do not rush in.
When is it appropriate for BCEHS staff to enter a “Hot Zone”?
Never — only trained HazMat technicians enter the Hot Zone.
When should patient care begin relative to decontamination?
After decon (unless life-threatening situation in cold zone)
Name three resources you can contact for chemical information in BC.
CANUTEC, BCEHS Dispatch (for HazMat team), Poison Control, ERG.